Using GlobalProtect VPN on Windows

Summary

Step-by-step instructions for connecting to Bowdoin's VPN using the GlobalProtect app on a Windows 11 computer. Covers first-time setup, connecting on subsequent uses, and disconnecting. Requires GlobalProtect to already be installed.

Body

Questions

  • How do I connect to Bowdoin VPN on Windows?
  • How do I use GlobalProtect on Windows 11?
  • How do I access Bowdoin network resources like Microwave from off campus on a Windows PC?
  • How do I disconnect from Bowdoin VPN on Windows?
  • Why does GlobalProtect say the network is unreachable?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin students, faculty, and staff connecting to Bowdoin's VPN using GlobalProtect on a Windows 11 computer. GlobalProtect must already be installed before following these steps — see Install GlobalProtect VPN on a Bowdoin-Issued Computer or iPad or Install GlobalProtect VPN on a Personal Device in the Related Articles section.

You will need your Okta Verify factor available (usually your phone) to complete sign-in.

VPN does not work on campus. GlobalProtect will not connect while your computer is on the Bowdoin network — via Ethernet, BOWDOIN wireless, or eduroam. VPN is for off-campus use only.

Resolution

First-time setup

If this is the first time you have opened GlobalProtect on this computer, complete these steps to configure the portal address before connecting.

  1. Click the Start menu (Windows icon), type GlobalProtect in the search box, and click the app to open it.
    GlobalProtect macOS application icon of a globe with a black shield in the lower-right corner.
     
  2. GlobalProtect will appear as a small globe icon in the system tray at the bottom right of the taskbar. Click the icon.
  3. In the Portal field, confirm the address reads remoteaccess.bowdoin.edu. If it does not, type it in.
  4. Click Connect.
    GlobalProtect error screen showing Connection Failed with a message about network connection or portal being unreachable.

    Note: If you attempt to connect while on campus, you will receive the error shown above. This is expected — connect from off campus.
  5. When prompted, sign in with your Bowdoin username and password and complete Okta MFA. When connected, the globe icon changes to a green dot.

Connecting on subsequent uses

  1. Click the GlobalProtect globe icon in the system tray.
  2. Click Connect.
  3. Sign in with your Bowdoin credentials and complete Okta MFA if prompted.

Disconnecting

  1. Click the GlobalProtect globe icon in the system tray.
  2. Click Disconnect.
Accessing Microwave (network file storage): Once connected to VPN, you can map the Microwave drives (H: personal, J: department) on your Windows computer. See the Microwave access article in the Related Articles section for instructions.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.

Details

Details

Article ID: 162900
Created
Tue 7/2/24 12:51 PM
Modified
Mon 5/4/26 2:19 PM

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Accessing a department network (Microwave) drive
Information on how to access a department's network drive, also known as a Microwave drive or a "J" drive. The provided instructions will work while on campus as well as away from campus.
Troubleshooting GlobalProtect VPN
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Step-by-step instructions for setting up and connecting to Bowdoin's VPN using the GlobalProtect app on an iPhone or iPad for the first time and on subsequent uses. Requires GlobalProtect to already be installed.
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Step-by-step instructions for connecting to Bowdoin's VPN using the GlobalProtect app on a Mac. Covers first-time setup, connecting on subsequent uses, and disconnecting. Requires GlobalProtect to already be installed.
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Bowdoin College's official policy governing the use of Virtual Private Network (VPN) technology to access the Bowdoin network from off campus. Covers security requirements for remote computers, user and administrator responsibilities, and enforcement.